What is Stamp?

[atrumpeteer]

Hi everyone! I've been browsing the stamp section for a while, and it really got my attention, but nothing really told me what exactly is the stamp method. Some even said it was not even really a method, and if it's not then what did James Stamp do with his students what was his approach?
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Life is like a trumpet - if you don't put anything into it, you don't get anything out of it. -William Christopher Handy

[swthiel]

I think "approach" is exactly the right term. I am far from expert, but I would venture to say that the Stamp approach is focused on efficient, minimum-effort playing. The Stamp book has a series of exercises, many of which are used by many as warm-ups, that guide you to that relaxed, efficient place. There's a book by Roy Poper that provide more explanation that what's in the Stamp book itself -- I highly recommend both. The approach is compatible with many of the other approaches you'll find on TH. The only place I see a clear conflict is with Reinhardt -- Stamp uses pedal tones, while Reinhardt forbids them. I would personally have some trouble reconciling Stamp with Caruso, but that may well be a result of how little I know about Caruso.

However ... I think the best way to understand the approach is to study with someone who knows the approach. Once you "get it" (even if you don't do it perfectly) and understand the goal, you might be able to work more independently. A teacher would be better, IMO.

I credit the Stamp approach with much of what is good with my sound, and with what improvements I've made in my range.

I hope that those more knowledgeable will correct any mistakes I've made, and perhaps add some clarification.
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Steve Thiel

[atrumpeteer]

Thanks alot!
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Life is like a trumpet - if you don't put anything into it, you don't get anything out of it. -William Christopher Handy